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Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ~ Colossians 3:12
Have you ever worn something that didn't quite fit right. You're painfully aware of that "not quite right" feeling all day! Have you ever noticed that sometimes compassion, kindness, patience,etc come more easily at times than others or to some people rather than others? As believers we are told to “put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Col. 3:12)....whether we feel like "it fits" or not. This can sound like an impossible feat at times.
While emotions cannot be manufactured on demand, we can change our thoughts, which in turn affect our emotions. Compassion, as with all the other qualities listed in today’s passage, is possible only when we think of others before ourselves. Self-focus can keep us from seeing the needs and hurts of those around us and acting on their behalf. What we need is a renewed mind.
As our minds are renewed with His Word and we grow in obedience, Christ’s love and compassion begin to flow through us. Instead of our being oblivious to the pain and suffering around us, God will open our eyes and use us to comfort those in need.
A heart of compassion is achieved not through self-effort but through a God-focused life. As we draw near to Him through His Word and His Son, He transforms our focus, thoughts, and feelings. What a relief to know that God has provided everything we need to follow Jesus’ example of caring. He always equips us to obey His every command.
Growing in Compassion Together...
Have you ever worn something that didn't quite fit right. You're painfully aware of that "not quite right" feeling all day! Have you ever noticed that sometimes compassion, kindness, patience,etc come more easily at times than others or to some people rather than others? As believers we are told to “put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Col. 3:12)....whether we feel like "it fits" or not. This can sound like an impossible feat at times.
While emotions cannot be manufactured on demand, we can change our thoughts, which in turn affect our emotions. Compassion, as with all the other qualities listed in today’s passage, is possible only when we think of others before ourselves. Self-focus can keep us from seeing the needs and hurts of those around us and acting on their behalf. What we need is a renewed mind.
As our minds are renewed with His Word and we grow in obedience, Christ’s love and compassion begin to flow through us. Instead of our being oblivious to the pain and suffering around us, God will open our eyes and use us to comfort those in need.
A heart of compassion is achieved not through self-effort but through a God-focused life. As we draw near to Him through His Word and His Son, He transforms our focus, thoughts, and feelings. What a relief to know that God has provided everything we need to follow Jesus’ example of caring. He always equips us to obey His every command.
Growing in Compassion Together...
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